Because so many cruises go to tropical ports, that often includes going to places where poverty is more plentiful than prosperity, especially in Central America, Mexico and the Caribbean. Safety is always a concern. Cruise passengers can be targets for theft…whether you're in a poor country or not.

Time for 10 tips:

1. Don't wear jewelry when leaving the ship. This comes from people who did, and who had a necklace snatched from the neck in broad daylight.

2. Take only ID that's necessary. Cruise lines often announce that you must take your ship card and "photo ID" when going ashore. Rarely, if ever, have we been asked for photo ID when getting back on a ship. Having said that, if you're told you need photo ID, take it.

3. Take one credit card. Why would you need two?

4. Write down all the information on the back of your credit card and leave it on the ship.

5. Survey your surroundings, and don't travel alone.

6. Substitute a cheap ring for your wedding ring. This assumes that your wedding ring is not cheap, and that you want to deliver the visual message that you're married.

7. Carry only a small amount of cash. You have a credit card remember?

8. If you're carrying anything valuable, take a photo of it and leave it behind. Again, the voices of experience.

9. Don't carry a purse or wallet unless it's absolutely necessary.

10. Be cautious about anyone who wants to "help" you. Usually, there is an ulterior motive, sometimes as innocent as making a few bucks by showing you around, but sometimes worse.